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The Rays’ return to their home stadium brings a renewed sense of energy and community to Tampa Bay baseball.St. Petersburg Today
The Tampa Bay Rays defeated the Chicago Cubs 6-4 on Monday in their first game at Tropicana Field in 561 days. Cedric Mullins, Jonathan Aranda, and Junior Caminero each hit home runs to power the Rays to victory.
Why it matters
The Rays’ return to their home stadium after over a year and a half is a significant milestone, as the team looks to build momentum and fan engagement after playing most of their recent home games elsewhere.
The details
Mullins, Aranda, and Caminero each hit solo home runs to account for the Rays’ scoring in the game. The win marked the team’s first game back at Tropicana Field since the COVID-19 pandemic forced them to play the majority of their home games elsewhere.
The game took place on Monday, April 7, 2026.The Rays had not played at Tropicana Field for 561 days prior to this game.
The players
Cedric Mullins
Outfielder for the Tampa Bay Rays who hit a home run in the game.
Jonathan Aranda
Infielder for the Tampa Bay Rays who hit a home run in the game.
Junior Caminero
Outfielder for the Tampa Bay Rays who hit a home run in the game.
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The takeaway
The Rays’ return to Tropicana Field after over a year and a half is an important milestone for the team and its fans, as they look to build momentum and engagement in their home market.